Perspective on Idols through BNK 48

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore and revisit the definition of the term "idol" which is frequently used in the online world. The primary focus of this article is to explore the definition and background of idols, and influence of idols in Thailand, as well as a comparative analysis of the characteristics of Korean, Japanese, and Thai idols (BNK48). It was found that the mutual characteristics of the idols from the 3 countries were: (1) joining the entertainment industry at a young age and (2) being subjects under strict rules and regulations. However, there are some characteristics that are unique to each group of idols. The key characteristics of Korean idols include: (1) being good-looking according to Asian beauty standards, (2) being a good singer, (3) being a good dancer, (4) being considered a professional artist after debut, and (5) having received high international recognition. On the contrary, idols from Japan were found with 7 key unique attributes including: (1) being idolized for a long term, (2) having an emphasis on natural values, (3) having a high level of internal competition within an idol’s group, (4) having to be a model of hardworking, (5) having roles in various activities as an idol, (6) being encouraged to have more than one occupation at a time, and (7) each of their performance is viewed as a platform for training. As for Thai idols (BNK48), since adopting idol culture from AKB48, a sister group from Japan, they were found with several similarities with Japanese idols. The characteristics of Thai idols include: (1) being good-looking according to Asian beauty standards, (2) being a good singer, (3) being a good dancer, (4) having an emphasis on natural values, (5) being considered a professional artist after debut, (6) having a high level of internal competition within an idol’s group, (7) having to be a model of hardworking, and (8) having roles in various activities as an idol.